Located in Ghorahi Sub-Metropolitan City-5, Dharapani has emerged as a popular tourist hub for both local and external visitors. This scenic destination, renowned for its religious significance and natural beauty, has become a favored spot for weekend getaways and family picnics.
Growing Popularity Among Tourists
Visitors from nearby districts and beyond are increasingly flocking to Dharapani. Recently, Suresh Chaudhary, a 10th-grade student from Baijapur, Banke, visited the area with friends during a weekend holiday. “I had heard a lot about Dharapani, and seeing it for myself was a wonderful experience. The scenic beauty, Trishul, and Om Pokhari’s serene park made our visit delightful,” he shared, adding that boating in the reservoir was a highlight.
Similarly, Sabina KC from Rajapur, Bardiya, chose Dharapani for a picnic with friends. “Hearing about its attractions and experiencing them firsthand is quite different. The temple and park have developed significantly, and the serene surroundings make it a perfect destination,” she remarked.
Convenient Access and Facilities
Located just 9 kilometers south of Ghorahi Bazaar, Dharapani is easily accessible via private vehicles, buses, or auto-rickshaws. The well-paved roads have made it a convenient destination for tourists. The highlight of the area is a 55.5-foot Panchadhatu Trishul, which has made Dharapani a sought-after spot for visitors from Dang and neighboring districts like Rukum, Rolpa, Salyan, and even far-off regions like Bardiya, Kailali, and Palpa.
International visitors, including devotees from India, are also drawn to Dharapani, thanks to its proximity to Ghorahi Bazaar and excellent transport facilities. “It feels like no one leaves Dang without visiting Dharapani,” said Ganesh Kumar Adhikari, the temple management committee’s president.
Religious and Natural Attractions
Dharapani offers a unique blend of religious and natural beauty. Key attractions include the world’s tallest Trishul, 108 Shiva Lingas, 108 pairs of sacred trees, the Om Kund, Pandav Shayan Shila, and various temples dedicated to deities. The surrounding greenery, along with nearby rivers like Sarayu Ganga and Babai, adds to its charm.
The area is especially popular for picnics, with many groups visiting during holidays. In just one Saturday, the temple hosted 22 picnic groups, according to Adhikari.
Enhancing the Tourist Experience
Efforts to develop Dharapani as a major tourist destination are underway. The temple management committee has built a new entrance gate, improved pathways with brick paving, and established parking facilities. A wetland area has been preserved, and two boats are now operational, allowing visitors to enjoy the reservoir.
Under a master plan funded by donations and government support, the site has seen significant development, including the establishment of a shrine dedicated to Goddess Devi at Sunakot near Dharapani.
Local Products and Cultural Promotion
A souvenir house (Koseli Ghar) has been established with financial assistance from the sub-metropolitan city. This center showcases local products like clay utensils, bamboo items, lentils, Gundruk, and Simtharo rice. “The Koseli Ghar promotes local identity by introducing domestic and foreign tourists to the region’s unique products,” explained Bodhi Prasad Adhikari, the committee’s treasurer.
Reservoir: A Major Attraction
The reservoir at Dharapani has become a centerpiece of attraction. Built with a budget of NPR 10 million allocated by Lumbini Province’s Ministry of Industry, Tourism, Forest, and Environment, it spans four bighas. The boating facility and scenic surroundings make it a favorite among tourists.
Dharapani’s blend of religious significance, natural beauty, and well-developed infrastructure has positioned it as a must-visit destination, contributing to Dang’s growing reputation as a vibrant hub for tourism.